Nick Mangold Death and Obituary – Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, one of the most respected offensive linemen in franchise history, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the age of 41, following complications from chronic kidney disease. His passing has left the football world mourning the loss of a player whose skill, leadership, and personality made a lasting mark on and off the field.
Mangold had been battling chronic kidney disease since 2006, when he was first diagnosed with a genetic defect that affected kidney function. Despite his condition, he maintained a successful 11-season NFL career and rarely discussed his health publicly until 2025.
On October 14, 2025, Mangold revealed on social media that he had been undergoing dialysis and was in urgent need of a kidney transplant. The announcement drew an outpouring of support from fans, former teammates, and members of the NFL community. He remained optimistic, expressing gratitude for his supporters and hope for recovery.
In what would become his final interview, conducted with the New York Post, Mangold reflected on his health struggles with characteristic humility and humor. He admitted that while his condition was serious, he believed he still had “more time.” His passing came as a shock to many who followed his courageous battle.
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from across the NFL. The New York Jets organization released a heartfelt statement praising Mangold’s leadership, toughness, and dedication to the team. “Nick represented everything it meant to be a Jet,” the statement read.
Former head coach Rex Ryan described Mangold as “the anchor of the offensive line and the heart of our locker room,” while former quarterback Mark Sanchez remembered him as “a big brother and protector both on and off the field.”
Mangold’s achievements speak volumes about his legacy. A seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro, he was inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor in 2022, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats. Just a week before his death, Mangold had been announced as one of 52 modern-era players advancing in consideration for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class—an honor that underscored his lasting impact on the game.
On October 26, the Jets honored Mangold before their first win of the season, holding a moment of silence and displaying his name and jersey number on the stadium screens. Fans chanted his name, a moving tribute to a player whose passion and integrity defined an era of Jets football.
Nick Mangold leaves behind a legacy not only as one of the greatest centers in NFL history but also as a devoted teammate, husband, and father. His strength in the face of illness and his dedication to the sport he loved will continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike.